Hamas responded on Thursday to US President Donald Trump’s threats, which he referred to as an “ultimatum,” demanding the group release the “Israeli” captives in its custody.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said in a statement, “These threats complicate matters related to the ceasefire agreement and encourage the Israeli Occupation government to avoid fulfilling its obligations.”
Qassem explained that the agreement, mediated by Washington, outlined the release of Palestinian detainees in three phases. He added that Hamas had completed its part in the first phase, while Tel Aviv had been evading the second phase.
Qassem emphasized, “What the US administration should do is pressure the Israeli Occupation to begin negotiations for the second phase as outlined in the ceasefire agreement.”
Meanwhile, another Hamas spokesperson, Abdel Latif Al-Qanou, told Sawa News Agency, “Trump’s repeated threats against our people support “Israeli” Prime Minister Netanyahu’s efforts to backtrack on the agreement and intensify the siege and starvation against our people.”
Al-Qanou continued, “The best way to secure the release of the remaining “Israeli” captives is for the occupation to enter negotiations for the second phase and be held accountable for implementing the agreement, as mediated by third parties.”
President Trump had posted a message on his social media platform, Truth Social, the previous night, warning Hamas: “Shalom Hamas, which means both hello and goodbye. You can choose: either release all hostages now, or it’s over for you.”
Trump added, “We are sending “Israel” everything they need to finish the job, and no member of Hamas will be safe if you don’t comply.”
Trump mentioned that Tel Aviv had received 33 captives from Gaza in the first phase, but did not provide any details about the second phase.
These threats come at a sensitive time, with Hamas reiterating its commitment to fulfilling the ceasefire agreement and urging Tel Aviv to implement all its terms. The group is calling for mediators to start the second phase of negotiations, which includes an “Israeli” withdrawal from Gaza and a complete halt to the aggression.
